A cyber fraud incident involving the so-called digital arrest scam has come to light in the Atarsuiya area, where an advocate was cheated of ₹4 lakh by criminals posing as a Delhi Police IPS officer. The fraudsters threatened the victim by claiming that a fake money-laundering FIR had been registered against him and created panic by warning of possible arrest. Following the incident, an FIR has been lodged at Atarsuiya police station and a formal investigation has begun.
Victim Pressured to Transfer Funds
According to the victim’s statement to police, he received a video call on February 16. When the call was answered, a man wearing a police uniform appeared on the screen and introduced himself as an IPS officer of Delhi Police. The caller told the advocate that an FIR had been registered against him in connection with money-laundering allegations and that he could be arrested soon. Using this false claim, the accused gradually applied psychological pressure during the conversation.
The fraudster exploited the fear of arrest and forced the advocate to transfer ₹4 lakh to multiple bank accounts. After the money was transferred, the accused continued to deceive the victim for several days by claiming that the amount was being verified by the Reserve Bank of India. The fraudster later suddenly stopped contacting the victim, after which the advocate realised that he had been cheated.
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No Legal Basis for Digital Arrest
Police officials clarified that there is no official procedure known as digital arrest in the law-enforcement system. If a person is wanted in connection with any case or legal proceeding, police follow established legal protocols for action. They warned that phone calls made in the name of investigative agencies or police officers to intimidate people are purely part of cyber fraud tactics.
Cyber Safety Guidelines Issued
Cybersecurity experts have advised citizens to remain cautious of video calls or suspicious phone calls from unknown numbers. If anyone demands money or threatens arrest by posing as a police or investigation officer, the call should be immediately disconnected. Victims are urged to report such incidents to local police authorities or the national cybercrime helpline number 1930 without delay.
Police said efforts are underway to identify the fraudsters using mobile number records and bank account details associated with the transaction. Technical evidence is being collected to trace the cybercrime network behind the operation. Officials emphasised that public awareness and prompt reporting are essential to prevent such crimes.
Heightened Vigilance Urged
The incident has once again highlighted the growing threat of digital fraud targeting professionals and ordinary citizens alike. Authorities have appealed to the public not to trust unknown callers who create fear by threatening legal action or demanding immediate money transfers.
Citizens are advised to verify any suspicious communication claiming to be from law enforcement agencies and avoid sharing personal or financial information over phone or video calls. Police reiterated that awareness and vigilance are the most effective defence against cyber fraudsters operating through digital arrest scams.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
